New program would funnel GVSU students to MSU medical school

GRAND RAPIDS -- A special "pipeline" from the area's biggest college to its new medical school was announced Saturday at Grand Valley State University's graduation ceremonies.

Students who excel in a program that would place GVSU students in medically-underserved areas would be assured acceptance into Michigan State University's medical school, now being built downtown.

Grand Valley State University President Thomas Haas said the medical school "will benefit our community for decades to come" and that both schools' "spirit of collaboration" will result in more partnerships.

Haas spoke of the new "early assurance" program as he introduced MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon, a speaker at GVSU's commencement ceremonies. About 2,000 students attended the event at Van Andel Arena.

Additional details were provided later by Jean Nagelkerk, GVSU's vice provost for health. Nagelkerk said the "pipeline" program would allow students to secure spots at MSU's College of Human Medicine, expected to open in 2010.

It will be designed for GVSU students who sign up for clinical and research efforts in medically-underserved rural and urban areas. Top students -- based on field work, grades, and standardized tests -- would be guaranteed admission to the medical school.

"It will improve the health for the West Michigan community," she said. "And oftentimes, if students go to school in an area, they'll come back and practice there."

Also, Nagelkerk said MSU plans to lease space from GVSU at its Cook DeVos Center for Health Sciences while MSU facilities are under construction nearby.

The space will be used for women's health research, conducted by faculty and involving GVSU students, she said.